What Is the Best Way to Teach Your Kid(s) Good Digestive Habits?

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In the high-speed world, it is often tricky to get some time to slow down and focus on our physical health — especially our digestive health. It is sometimes easier to just get a to-go dinner as we rush the kids to the next football game or ballet practice. But as we know, our kids are surveying and learning from everything we do. That is why it is important that we dedicate ourselves to improving our kid’s digestive wellness.

Digestive health is important for the overall condition of our bodies, and there are many things we could do to enhance the digestive wellness of our youngsters. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, we are committed to assisting everyone in your family so they can experience ideal digestive health for a lifetime. Read below as our New Orleans, LA gastroenterologists clarify how you might educate your children on wholesome digestive behaviors.

Why is it essential to improve my child’s GI health?

Gastrointestinal wellness can help improve a child’s complete health. GI disorders can involve many symptoms, including acid reflux, indigestion, heartburn, and bloating. It is essential to mirror strong eating behaviors in kids to lessen and control GI symptoms or even prevent more major issues in the future. To help the youngest people in the family understand healthy eating habits for a lifetime of GI wellness, our team is thrilled to provide the following advice below.

How can I help my child follow healthy eating behaviors?

There are many ways to help your child down a successful road to GI health. Some of the optimal ways to make sure you’re nurturing a healthy eater is to solidify good boundaries for them to adopt. You may also encourage your kid to:

  • Eat junk food in moderation.
  • Eat food at a well-balanced rate.
  • Sustain a healthy diet.
  • Drink lots of water other than soda or other sugary drinks (this may encompass things like juices, as they typically contain a wealth of sugar).

If you want to learn more about what specific foods or drinks to include in your kid’s diet to foster good digestive health, meet with our providers at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. We would be delighted to assist your child in the desired direction during an individualized meeting.

Are there alternative methods to improve children’s digestive health?

Although there are several ways to boost your child’s GI health, the key is to help them incorporate proper eating habits. There’s an additional piece that is key for regular gastrointestinal functioning — verifying persistent physical activity. Exercise improves the blood circulation to the digestive system muscles, assisting with food moving through the digestive tract. When we meld together healthy eating beliefs with exercise, our bodies can function at their peak performance. It is beneficial to set good examples for the children in your family to abide by and to ensure all members of your family get enough physical activity each day. Discover ways to incorporate exercise in the household and have fun while also being active and boosting the GI health of the whole family.

Locate digestive care for children in New Orleans, LA

If you’re looking for ways to enhance your child’s physical wellness and GI health, you can count on the experienced and considerate GI physicians at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. With the patient-centered approach we take toward medicine, we put the care of your children above all else. We hope to assist them in reaching their full power in GI wellness. To schedule a consultation with a provider who supports children’s GI care in New Orleans, LA, please contact our practice location nearest you. Our GI providers are here to help offer you advice and guide you and your child on the journey to ideal GI health.

3 Reasons a Surgical Center Is Better Than Hospital for a Colonoscopy

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You’ve heard that you’re supposed to get a colonoscopy (at the age of 45, or sooner if you have risk factors) – but did you know that you DON’T have to have a colonoscopy at a hospital? That, in fact, you can have a better experience by not having it at a hospital?

Unless you have a health condition that requires you to have access to a full-service hospital, you’ll likely be able to have your colonoscopy at a surgical center instead…with less hassle. Surgery centers have been performing safe, high-quality outpatient services for more than 40 years – benefitting you, the patient.

Here are 3 Reasons Having your Colonoscopy at a Surgical Center is Better than Having it at a Hospital:

It saves you money.

That’s right: the cost of an outpatient procedure performed at an outpatient surgical center (like Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C.) instead of at a hospital usually costs a lot less.

For instance, the average cost of a colonoscopy at a hospital is $3,059.07.

In contrast, the average cost of a colonoscopy at a surgical center is $1,590.08.

That’s nearly HALF the cost – for the exact same procedure.

We provide safe, quality procedures the same as hospitals do – maintaining our high standards. Our center is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, and we are also CMS certified.

When you’re paying out of pocket (and even if insurance picks up the bill), you deserve to know all the costs in what you’re paying for. You’ll find our transparency helpful: We will tell you all the costs up front, without any hidden costs showing up after your procedure.

Convenience.

If you’ve ever had a procedure at a hospital or drove someone to one, you know it’s often a lot of hurry-up-and-wait.

It’s trying to find a parking spot with all the other people coming in for their procedures…and those visiting loved ones at the hospital.

It’s navigating the long hallways, making sure you find the right room and the right waiting room (and park at the right entrance!).

But at our surgery center, we are focused on a limited number of procedures, so it’s much easier to maneuver around here than a typical hospital environment would be.

You won’t have to hurry to get there on time only to have to sit and wait for all the people you encounter to take your paperwork, while they’re taking paperwork from seemingly every other person in the hospital at the same time.

Who wants added stress when they’re going in for a medical procedure? No one.

Personalized, comfortable care.

When you’re having a medical procedure performed, you want to be relaxed and calm and possible. That’s what we want for you, too. When you’re at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., the atmosphere is pleasant and relaxed. Because we offer targeted, specialty services in a smaller setting, it will feel more like home (as much as can be when you’re having your health taken care of!).

Because you aren’t at a hospital with constant rotating staff who are busy taking care of a multitude of patients, you’ll feel more comfortable and receive the personalized care from our dedicated staff.

You won’t feel like a burden for asking any questions, because we’re here for you and ready to answer anything and address any concerns you may have.

Choose Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C.

Stop paying too much for healthcare! At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., our surgical center can perform outpatient procedures that you may normally get at a hospital – for a much lower cost. Contact us today to schedule your colonoscopy (or have any other of your gastrointestinal issues, including Celiac Disease, looked into) at our Metro Detroit locations.

Common Digestive Conditions in Children (0 –18)

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Having a rumbling tummy or an occasional stomach ache is quite common for children and teens of all ages. But when the pains and aches happen frequently, are you aware of what remedies can help? In the event your child or teenager requires pediatric digestive care in New Orleans, LA, contact our gastroenterology specialists to find a remedy. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, we have the experience and knowledge needed to provide personalized treatment options. Read on to learn further details about common childhood digestive disorders, along with a few insightful tricks and tips.

How frequently are children impacted by GI conditions?

As stated by the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, 40 to 50% of appointments with a pediatric gastroenterologist are due to functional GI disorders. Constipation, or encopresis, arises in approximately 10 to 25% of children who are advised to visit a pediatric GI doctor, and approximately 17% of high school-age patients deal with symptoms representative of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Our New Orleans, LA gastroenterology specialists aim to help your family determine solutions for pediatric GI conditions.

What kinds of GI disorders are common in teens, children, and infants?

A sample of the pediatric GI disorders that are commonly identified in teenagers, children, and infants include the following:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Frequent heartburn in infants and children could lead to a GERD diagnosis. Common signs and symptoms are burping, lack of a desire to eat, vomiting, abdominal pain, hiccups, and choking or gagging.

Lactose intolerance: This treatable issue is among the GI disorders that can affect teens, children, and infants. It happens when a child’s body is unable to metabolize the sugar present in dairy, known as lactose. Loose or watery stools, a stomach ache, gas, or bloating after ingesting dairy products are all indications of this condition. Taking lactase enzymes before eating dairy products can allow the body to process lactose properly.

Constipation: Constipation develops when stool is dry, large, and/or difficult to pass. Among children, constipation can cause them to avoid going to the bathroom. Not having regular bowel movements could result in more constipation and additional gastrointestinal discomfort.

IBD (inflammatory bowel disease): This digestive health concern may develop in teenagers and children. It describes two individual GI conditions. Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation in the large intestine (colon) while Crohn’s disease can impact all parts of the digestive tract. Common signs and symptoms of both conditions may involve watery or bloody stool and stomach pain.

Celiac disease: Celiac disease is a digestive health issue that arises when an adverse reaction happens in the wake of ingesting gluten. Gluten is a protein present in barley, rye, and wheat. If the disease is left uncontrolled, it could damage the small intestine and prevent your child’s body from absorbing the necessary nutrients from food.

EoE (eosinophilic esophagitis): This disease develops in the esophagus. It can result in chronic allergic inflammatory disease. Kids can experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, regurgitation, and a burning sensation similar to acid reflux. Additionally, they may gag frequently and report swallowing difficulties.

What can parents do to promote good digestive health in children?

We know that as a parent, you want the best for your family, from planning doctor appointments to ensuring they eat a healthy and balanced diet. Some ways to help your child maintain GI health are to incorporate these suggestions into their day-to-day life:

  • Sit down as a family to eat: Strive to make mealtime pleasant for every member of your family and designate a family mealtime. Doing so provides consistency and stability, helping to ensure the time spent sharing family meals is enjoyable for all. Allowing your toddlers to feed themselves during mealtimes is also a good way to help them develop a healthy association with food.
  • Monitor portion sizes: The amount of food eaten can impact how food is processed and digested. If a child eats in excess, it could cause problems with digestion and result in stomach upset.
  • Slow down when eating: We understand that between after-school activities and spending time with friends, it is easy for your teen to quickly snag a snack from the pantry before heading out the door. Encourage them to take time to enjoy the food they consume to prevent digestive upset.

To learn more tips on how to help your child enjoy good GI health, request a consultation with us at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. Our digestive health providers will partner with you to find an approach that meets your family’s needs and lifestyle.

Find care for pediatric digestive conditions in New Orleans, LA

Children’s gastrointestinal issues do not have to cause ongoing, unmanageable symptoms. You can access solutions for everyone in the family when GI concerns arise. For further details about the common GI issues affecting children, request a consultation at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. Our gastroenterology team proudly offers pediatric digestive care in New Orleans, LA that can help your child experience optimal GI health as they grow.

Prevent Joint Injury by Resting After Exercise

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Exercising is essential to healthy living, but intense exercise without adequate rest can cause joint pain and lead to long-term injury.

Can Exercise Worsen Joint Pain?

When managing arthritis, one of the best decisions you can make is maintaining a healthy weight. Added body weight puts excessive strain on the joints, especially your knees. For example, being only 10 pounds overweight places 30 to 60 additional pounds of force on the knee with every step.

If your doctor has suggested increasing your exercise to lose weight and decrease joint strain, it’s important to begin slowly with moderate physical activity. The same workouts that burn calories can wear down your joints, destroy cartilage and cause joint injury.

Signs of Overexercising

“Too much of a good thing” can definitely apply to exercise. However, overexercising can be just as detrimental as not exercising because overtraining can lead to permanent joint damage.

Here are several signs that you are pushing too hard in your exercise regimen:

  • Increased heart rate
  • Not feeling as strong
  • Exercise stops being invigorating
  • Lacking physical performance
  • Difficulty reaching fitness goals
  • Changes in metabolic function
  • Poor sleep
  • Mood swings
  • Feeling more tired than you normally do

Low-impact Exercises That Prevent Joint Pain

Effective exercise does not have to result in profuse sweating and breathlessness. Adults between 18 and 65 should engage in moderate exercise for 30 minutes five times per week or vigorous exercise for 20 minutes three times per week. It is also important to do strength training twice per week.

To be healthy, you don’t need to run long distances or attend boot camp fitness classes. Why not consider some of these low-impact activities? All these exercises will increase your heart rate and help you burn fat, but they are gentle on your joints:

  • Swimming
  • Water aerobics
  • Indoor or outdoor biking
  • Pilates
  • Yoga
  • Dancing
  • Gardening and yard work

The Importance of Rest Days Between Workouts

Rest days are just as important as workout days. Rest days help relieve muscle pain and soreness and repair and build muscle tissue. Resting also replenishes the body’s energy and allows the mind to rest. On rest days, make sure you drink as much water as you do on training days and get eight hours of sleep at night to give your body the maximum benefit of the recovery (Medical Xpress).

Schedule a Consultation With an Orthopedist

Take some time to create some health and fitness goals this month. National Women’s Health and Fitness Day is Sept. 28. This is an important day for all adults to remember the importance of health and fitness in our lives.

Are you having joint pain in your knees, hips, shoulders or other joints? You don’t have to accept joint pain as a part of everyday life. Instead, make an appointment with your orthopedist to discuss managing your joint pain. This could include an exercise plan, nutrition modification or even a procedure to alleviate joint discomfort.

A Nutrient-rich Diet Can Help Prevent Cataracts

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Family history and age are risk factors for cataracts, but eating nutrient-dense foods can help protect your vision and possibly lower your cataract risk.

What Is a Cataract?

Cataracts are quite common with age, and they form when proteins in the eye lens clump together and form a cloudy area. In fact, about half of all Americans 80 or older have cataracts or have had cataract surgery. A developing cataract often has no symptoms. Over time, however, you may notice the following issues:

  • Blurred vision
  • Double vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Difficulty driving at night
  • The appearance of glares or halos
  • Images appear faded or yellowed

Foods That Fight Against Cataracts

Certain foods may help reduce your risk for cataracts or delay cataract development.

Eggs

Eggs are a high-quality protein recommended for most adults for a heart-healthy diet. In addition, egg yolks are high in zeaxanthin, a pigment that promotes eye health. One study found that for every 10 milligrams of zeaxanthin, patients experienced a 26 percent decrease in cataract development.

Salmon

Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which is associated with lower cataract risk. It also contains high amounts of selenium and iodine. Some plant-based good sources of omega-3 fatty acids are flax seeds, chia seeds and walnuts.

SunGold Kiwi

Vitamin C significantly impacts eye health, especially when it comes to cataracts. Studies show that higher levels of vitamin C reduce the risk of a cataract. Kiwi has more vitamin C than any commonly eaten fruit. In particular, SunGold kiwi is among the most nutritionally dense fruits and contains more than 100 percent of the recommended vitamin C intake.

Pumpkin

Research proves that diets rich in vitamins A and E are associated with fewer cataracts. One serving of pumpkin provides 300 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin E and 10 percent of vitamin A. You don’t have to wait until fall to indulge in pumpkin. Add pumpkin puree to smoothies, muffins and oatmeal.

Other Ways to Prevent Cataracts

Besides fighting cataracts with your fork, you can make a few lifestyle changes to prevent or delay cataracts. These can include the following methods:

  • Maintaining a healthy body weight
  • Limiting alcohol consumption
  • Not smoking
  • Wearing sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors

Comprehensive Eye Exams Diagnose Cataracts Early

How long has it been since you had a comprehensive eye exam? Your ophthalmologist can detect a developing cataract during your exam. Not all cataracts require surgery immediately, but your doctor can discuss a treatment plan and an appropriate timeline. Surgery is the only way to eliminate a cataract, so you will want to schedule the procedure once the cataract begins interfering with everyday tasks like driving, cooking, reading or house chores.

Call your ophthalmologist and make an appointment for eye exams for the entire family. Nothing can replace healthy vision.

Disparities Continue in Early-onset CRC Survival Rates

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A recent data analysis discovered that racial and ethnic disparities continue to affect survival rates in early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC) patients.

According to the study, the five-year survival rate for Hispanics, Blacks or Asians with early-onset CRC did not improve during a 20-year period. The study focused on patients between 1992 and 2013. Early onset means the patient receives a diagnosis before the age of 50.

The data revealed the only survival rate improvement was in white patients.

Researchers identified 33,777 individuals newly diagnosed with early-onset CRC between Jan. 1, 1992, and Dec. 31, 2013. Of these, 58.5 percent were white; 14.5 percent Hispanic; 14 percent Black and 13 percent Asian. Statistics came from the National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program of cancer registries.

The study revealed “Blacks had not caught up to whites in surviving early-onset CRC.”

“Survival for Blacks diagnosed from 2003 to 2013 remained even lower than for whites diagnosed a decade earlier,” said Timothy Zaki, MD, the study’s lead author.

The analysis also noted key treatment data for Hispanic and Asian patients.

“Our study’s identification of disparities among younger Hispanic and Asian adults adds to existing literature,” Dr. Zaki told MedicalXpress. “However, we lack information, such as what treatment these individuals received, that could help explain the disparities, so we are still left with the question of why they exist.”

Scientists believe there are reasons for racial and ethnic healthcare disparities. These reasons may include “employment, insurance status, income and education level, behaviors (e.g., tobacco, alcohol, diet), environment (e.g., rural or urban), social support and cultural factors.”

Dr. Zaki noted concern that health disparities may worsen now that recommendations for CRC screening start at age 45, not 50.

“If more are screened who have the means and inclination to do so — but we fail to make progress in other populations — we could see these gaps widening,” Dr. Zaki told MedicalXpress.

Colon Cancer Health Risks for Hispanics

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15) in the United States, it is important to recognize the health and well-being of our Hispanic population.

New statistics appear in the American Cancer Society’s (ACS’s) Cancer Facts & Figures for Hispanic/Latino People 2021-2023:

  • CRC is the second-deadliest cancer among Hispanic males.
  • CRC is the third-deadliest cancer among Hispanic females.
  • CRC causes about 2,700 deaths among Hispanic males.
  • CRC causes about 2,000 deaths among Hispanic females.

A colorectal cancer diagnosis is preventable through screening.

Get screened at 45

Healthcare agencies recommend CRC screening begin at 45, even without symptoms. Patients with digestive symptoms should seek medical care regardless of age.

In 2018, colon cancer screening prevalence was 9 percent lower for Hispanics than non-Hispanic whites among adults 45 and older, according to the ACS.

Colonoscopy is the preferred method for screening because colorectal cancer can be both detected and removed during the same procedure. Other screenings can detect the presence of cancer cells or hidden blood in the stool. However, if a patient receives a positive test result, he or she will need a follow-up colonoscopy.

Health insurance plans within the Affordable Care Act provide no-cost coverage for preventive and follow-up colonoscopy screenings. Contact your provider to determine your coverage.

If you do not have insurance, there are resources to learn about a low-cost or free colonoscopy. Some resources include the Colorectal Cancer Alliance Helpline, ColonoscopyAssist or your state’s health and human services or department of public health.

Patients who are at high risk for colon cancer may need to be screened before age 45. In addition, patients with digestive symptoms should seek medical attention regardless of age. Colonoscopy should always be the screening test of choice for those who have any of the following:

  • Previous CRC diagnosis
  • History of adenomas
  • Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
  • Family history of colon cancer or certain types of polyps
  • Inherited colon cancer syndrome (e.g., Lynch Syndrome)

It is important to discuss CRC risks and symptoms with your family and doctor. It is also important to get screened. Both may save your life or the life of a loved one.

Our doctors perform colonoscopy screenings at surgery centers around the country. Schedule an appointment today.

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Are You a Candidate for the TIF® Procedure to Treat GERD?

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In the event you or someone you love has GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), you understand that this digestive condition can be painful and may sometimes make daily life troublesome. The good news is you don’t have to live with chronic acid reflux. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, it is possible to alleviate the symptoms of GERD with transoral incisionless fundoplication, commonly referred to as the TIF procedure. For additional information about how this GERD treatment option could help you experience relief from your acid reflux symptoms or locate a specialist who offers the TIF procedure in New Orleans, LA, please request an appointment with our gastroenterology team today.

What is GERD?

You could be experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease if you have mild to moderate acid reflux several times a week or severe acid reflux a few times a week. While the disease commonly develops in adults aged 40 or above, you can potentially develop GERD if you:

  • Routinely eat spicy foods
  • Have a hiatal hernia or scleroderma
  • Drink coffee
  • Are overweight
  • Are pregnant
  • Consume large amounts of food late at night
  • Lay down immediately after eating
  • Drink alcohol or use tobacco

Though you can attempt to avoid consuming foods and other known triggers to ease GERD symptoms, medical intervention is necessary at times. Our team is pleased to provide the TIF procedure in New Orleans, LA as a treatment for chronic reflux.

How does the TIF procedure work?

Transoral incisionless fundoplication is a minimally invasive, advanced treatment performed to address GERD. This procedure reinforces the tissue joining the upper stomach and esophagus to improve the function of the gastroesophageal junction.

Transoral incisionless fundoplication is often sought out and deemed an attractive solution because it involves no incisions or metal implants, and the recovery phase is commonly fast. It is also a safe procedure that can allow individuals who have failed to experience acid reflux relief to receive the treatment they need.

Is transoral incisionless fundoplication an ideal option for me?

If you think the TIF procedure could be the right solution for your GERD, we encourage you to request a treatment consultation at a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates location near you. Our skilled GI specialists can help you decide if this solution is suitable for your GI needs.

When you visit for a personalized consultation, our New Orleans, LA TIF specialists will inquire about your symptoms and health history to decide if this is the ideal option for you. You might also require additional testing to evaluate your candidacy for transoral incisionless fundoplication. Such diagnostics may entail esophageal acid exposure testing, an esophageal motility study, and endoscopy.

You may qualify for transoral incisionless fundoplication if you:

  • Experience chronic heartburn
  • Have GERD even after modifying your diet and lifestyle
  • Want to avoid the side effects of acid reflux medication
  • Have acid regurgitation or other GERD symptoms
  • Do not have a hiatal hernia larger than one inch

Get GERD relief with the TIF procedure

If you have been diagnosed with chronic acid reflux or GERD, you probably find it difficult to enjoy daily life. If other treatment strategies have failed to relieve these symptoms, the TIF procedure for reflux at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates could be an appropriate solution for you. To receive treatment for GERD or connect with a provider who offers transoral incisionless fundoplication in New Orleans, LA, get in touch with our practice without delay.

The Summer Heat and Gastrointestinal Concerns

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Beautiful blue skies, sunny weather, BBQs, and laughter by the pool are all indications that summer is upon us. But, the summer weather might not be the one and only thing heating up. If you’re dealing with GI issues during these warmer months, you’re not the only one. You can request a consultation with a gastrointestinal doctor at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates as soon as you’re able to learn how you can boost gut health.

Give your body the break it deserves in the hotter months with a few tricks and tips on how you can manage your GI symptoms. Read below to learn more from our New Orleans, LA GI specialists.

How might hot temps impact GI issues?

Rising temps will influence the body’s resilience and digestive capabilities. This can include loss of appetite on hotter days, symptoms of dehydration, or other heat-related illnesses (like heat exhaustion and heat stroke).

Heat waves change the bacterial composition of your GI tract, according to a study performed by researchers in Zurich, Switzerland. This could help us understand why some stomach pain and issues rise once the temperature rises.

The higher temps cause blood flow to divert to help regulate body temperature. Our GI system is affected more when this happens. Consequently, we may notice gastrointestinal concerns that may cause increased stomach pain and diarrhea.

Even if you take proactive steps to avoid dehydration and additional symptoms related to heat, it’s not guaranteed to totally thwart it. Persistent symptoms need to be assessed by our GI specialists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. Schedule an appointment with our GI specialists to get the proper medical attention for your GI symptoms.

Tips to improve gut health

Taking control when temps rise is vital to help you focus on your time with friends and family. A few easy things to keep in mind when you’re going to be in the sun can include:

  • Avoid consuming milk products: While milk might offer temporary relief after it’s ingested, it might actually heat the body. This even includes dairy products such as butter, ice cream, and cheese.
  • Make working out a routine: Brisk walking, a running routine, and yoga help with digestion. Adding movement to your daily routine can assist with stomach pains and even reduce stress.
  • Consider your hydration needs: Get enough water to make up for your loss through your sweat. This includes drinking 8 ­­– 10 glasses of water daily.
  • Incorporate probiotics into your diet: Drinking kombucha, eating yogurt, and taking a probiotic may be ways to encourage good gut bacteria.

Keep food poisoning from ruining your summer fun

During summer, the likeliness of food poisoning is greater. Preparing food outside usually will make safe food handling challenging since bacteria can multiply faster than normal during warm weather.

Understanding food poisoning symptoms is important in order to better understand the treatment. Some symptoms are:

  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Queasy stomach
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea

Don’t let the temperature increase impact your health. When you’re expecting a heat wave, take the time to focus on your health by paying attention to the needs of your body. Drink a lot of water, eat hydrating foods such as watermelon, strawberries, peaches, and oranges, and get proper assistance from our GI doctors in New Orleans, LA when you need help.

Maintain your digestive health over the summer months

Your gut health shouldn’t get in the way of enjoying the summer months with your loved ones. Help your stomach cool off this season with assistance from a GI doctor at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. Our awareness and expertise can help educate you. Don’t hold up your summer plans and request a consultation at your nearest location in New Orleans, LA.

What Is Colonoscopy Prep Like – And Why Is It So Important?

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Is it not the colonoscopy itself that makes you apprehensive, but the prep for it? That’s understandable. It’s true that a colonoscopy isn’t like other medical tests where you go in, have an X-ray, and that’s it. The prep for a colonoscopy is an important part of making sure we can see everything there is to see in your colon – but it doesn’t have to be difficult!

You WANT a colonoscopy. Why? Because it’s the best way to PREVENT COLON CANCER.  When you have a colonoscopy, we can see the linings of your colon and check it out for any concerns, and remove any polyps that may be pre-cancerous.

That’s what the prep of colonoscopy is: Cleaning out your intestines as much as possible, so nothing is in the way of spotting anything of concern.

Here’s how you can make the most of your colonoscopy prep, and keep your colon healthy:

A FEW DAYS BEFORE

This is one of the only times we’ll tell you to hold off on those fiber-rich foods!

And when you do eat, have smaller portions. It’s quicker to run through your digestive system, and less to accumulate that has to be eliminated with the colonoscopy prep drink the night before your procedure!

By cutting down on the amounts of solid foods you’re eating a few days before, the diet restrictions the day before your colonoscopy and the day of the procedure also won’t seem as difficult.

  • Stick to a diet of soups, eggs, rice, salmon, chicken, steamed vegetables, fruits, and light-colored foods.
  • Skip high-fiber foods that take a while to digest like nuts, popcorn and red meat. Stay away from fried foods, and things difficult to digest like corn, peas and apple skins.

THE DAY BEFORE

Don’t eat ANY solid foods the day before your colonoscopy. Remember, we don’t want any remnants floating around your digestive system when we have the camera in there, so give your body at least a day with no solids.

  • Clear liquids are good! Broth, black coffee or tea, clear juice or soft drinks, etc.
  • Then it’s time for the infamous colonoscopy prep drink (and it’s really not so bad)!

THE COLONOSCOPY PREP DRINK: THE MOST IMPORTANT PART

Your doctor will give you instructions on drinking a specific liquid laxative designed to get rid of everything left over in your bowels – and, keep this in mind: if you haven’t had solid foods for a day or so before this, there will be a LOT less to expel from your intestines when it comes time for this part.

  • Some tips to help things go more smoothly:
  • Be sure to get some medicated wet wipes to use. Some with aloe will help you feel more comfortable.
  • Clear your schedule for the evening when it comes time to drink your colonoscopy prep drink.
  • Set up shop in or near the bathroom, with your laptop, book, movies, or something else to keep your mind occupied. Don’t forget the chargers!
  • Chill your prep drink to make it easier to drink (a straw may help, too!).

The day of your colonoscopy:

We want your colon as empty as possible, so be sure to follow directions from your doctor on when to stop eating and drinking anything at all before your procedure.

When you come to our surgery center at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., it’s less overwhelming than at a hospital (with all the same equipment and amenities) so you’ll get situated and ready to go!

We’ll go over the procedure and answer any lingering questions you may have.

You’ll have a sedative, which means you won’t really feel anything from the procedure itself. And, it’s over in about a half hour!

When the colonoscopy is over, you can feel relieved that you underwent a procedure designed to catch and prevent colon cancer before it starts (and any other concerns). Way to go on that self-care!

Schedule your Colonoscopy

If you’re 45 years old or have risk factors, contact us today to schedule your colonoscopy at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan.